User tips

User manuals for the Forget-me-not products.

Forget-me-not electronic calendar

FORGET-ME-NOT is developed and produced by the firm Inger Hagen. It was introduced in 1998, and has been purchased by public and private providers of assistive technologies, institutions and individuals – most often family carers.

It may take some time before one is used to looking at the calendar. Family carers are encouraged to remind the user about Forget-me-not when they are asked what day it is. Some aspects to consider when using the calendar are listed below:

The importance of an early start

The importance to start early with assistive technologies is emphasised in a report on time orientation in dementia published by the Swedish institute of assisitve technology. At early stages of the disease, people are more capable of using new products, and may also be able to use the product for a longer period.

Placing

Forget-me-not should be placed where it can be seen easily. Many put it by the phone or on the kitchen table. Forget-me-not should not be hidden among photos, plants or trinkets.

Reflexes

Reflexes from the surface can be a problem. Please, be aware of this when choosing a suitable place for it.

Letter size

Some people would like bigger letters. Therefore, it is recommended to check that the user can read the text on the screen.

An idea for a present

Some people find it difficult to accept their memory problems and do not want to use assistive technologies. We suggest that carers and others consider whether and how the calendar should be introduced to the potential user. Many family carers have given the Forget-me-not calendar as a present.

Personal photos

Some have put a personal picture in the frame. This can easily be done by loosening the screws. Be aware that some users may "see" that it in fact is a calendar.

We are also developing other products which may enable persons with dementia and their carers to carry out some daily tasks.

With support from EU's framework programme for research and technological development, we co-operate with partners in Norway, Finland, England and Ireland. Users will test whether the products are useful to them before they are put into production.